Alberta Seeks Public Input on New Parks Plan Ahead of Parks Day

As Canada prepares to celebrate Parks Day on July 15, 2023, the Government of Alberta is inviting residents to share their thoughts on the draft Plan for Parks. This initiative aims to enhance the recreation and conservation of parks managed under the Provincial Parks Act.

The original plan, which was implemented in 2009, was designed to last for a decade. With the new draft, Alberta officials are focused on ensuring that the updated strategy aligns with the priorities of park visitors while safeguarding the province’s natural and cultural heritage. “We want to ensure the new plan helps support the priorities of visitors while maintaining the natural and cultural heritage of Alberta’s parks,” the province stated on its official website.

Public Engagement and Survey Participation

Albertans have the opportunity to participate in the consultation process through a survey available online, which is part of the second phase of community engagement concerning the draft plan. This 26-page document outlines several enduring goals, including making parks accessible and welcoming, conserving Alberta’s natural and cultural legacy, providing diverse nature-based experiences, and ensuring effective management for long-term sustainability.

The deadline for Albertans to complete the survey is July 26, 2023. This engagement is crucial as the province seeks to incorporate public feedback into the final version of the parks plan.

Celebrating Parks in Alberta

In anticipation of Parks Day, residents are encouraged to explore Alberta’s natural beauty through activities such as hiking or enjoying the scenic lakeshores. The province is also offering a 25 percent discount on camping fees for seniors over the age of 65 at 142 of Alberta’s nearly 500 campgrounds. A comprehensive list of participating campgrounds is available online.

Additionally, the federal government has eliminated entry fees to national parks for the summer season as part of the “Canada Strong Pass.” This initiative allows free admission to national parks, national historic sites, and marine conservation areas operated by Parks Canada. The pass also provides a 25 percent discount on camping fees within national parks and is valid until September 2, 2023. Some residents are hopeful that Alberta will implement similar measures for passes like the Kananaskis Conservation Pass, which costs $15 for a day or $90 for an annual pass, with free entry on the first Wednesday of every month.

As the province looks forward to enhancing its parks and recreational offerings, public input remains a pivotal component of shaping the future of Alberta’s treasured natural spaces.